Early Childhood Education

Why is Early Childhood important?

It is never too early to prepare for your child's future. Research on brain development has documented that the future education and well-being of a child are formed very early. The majority of the brain is developed during the first three years of life. Research shows that early experiences and early learning actually changes the physical structure of the brain. Infants and toddlers are pre-programmed to learn, but they only learn from the experiences that we provide for them.

As parents and caregivers, you have the awesome responsibility and privilege of shaping these early experiences.

Ottawa Area ISD is working to ensure that the resources and tools are available to give every child a healthy, enriched start to learning and life.

Ottawa County Preschool Programs
Information on Head Start, Great Start Readiness, and tuition assistance programs in your area.
**If you are interested in becoming a GSRP provider, please email or call 616-738-8940 Ex 4133.

Special Education Programs and Links

Early On
Available for families with children birth to three who may have a developmental delay and/or medical condition that could lead to a delay.

Infant Program
Provides services for children who have been identified through a special education evaluation to have a significant developmental delay or physical impairment.

Community Partners

Great Start Collaborative

The Great Start Collaborative-Ottawa is a partnership of local stakeholders and parents who are committed to establishing and maintaining a comprehensive early childhood system that will address all factors that influence a child’s readiness for school and life.

Parenting Resource and Links

Ages and Stages Developmental Questionnaire (ASQ)
Every child develops skills and milestones at their own pace. Click on the link above to check in on your child's development. The online questionnaire includes questions about your child's communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem-solving, and personal social skills. You must be a resident of Ottawa County to participate.

*If you have behavior concerns with your child, please call 616-738-8940 Ex 4070 to learn how OAISD specialists can help.

Great Start To Quality Childcare Resources
As part of a new initiative, Great Start CONNECT, ECIC created a new online statewide database of licensed, registered child care and early education programs in Michigan.